Tongue / Palate Biopsy in Windhoek

About this service

A tongue or palate biopsy is a procedure available in Windhoek to sample tissue from a lesion on the tongue or palate for laboratory diagnosis, performed under anaesthesia by a visiting dentist or maxillofacial surgeon. It's usually recommended when a sore, lump or discoloured patch in the mouth doesn't heal within the expected time or looks unusual on examination. Taking a biopsy allows your doctor to find out exactly what the lesion is and plan the right treatment.

At Eastgate Clinic this procedure is performed in our on-site day theatre, with consultation and results discussed by your GP in our rooms. Your doctor will explain what the biopsy involves for your specific lesion.

What to expect

• Your doctor examines the sore, lump or patch in our rooms and notes how long it has been there
• The biopsy is taken in our on-site day theatre under anaesthesia by a visiting dentist or maxillofacial surgeon
• A small sample of tissue is taken and sent for laboratory analysis
• Some soreness at the biopsy site while it heals is expected
• Your GP goes through the laboratory result with you at a follow-up visit in our rooms

Who is it for?

You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:

• A mouth sore or lesion that hasn't healed after a couple of weeks
• An unusual lump, patch or ulcer on the tongue or palate
• A lesion that has changed in size, colour or texture
• Persistent discomfort in the mouth needing investigation
• Referral from your dentist or doctor for a suspicious oral lesion

Frequently asked questions